Refresco to Acquire Britvic’s Three Juice Bottling Facilities in France
Refresco, the world’s largest independent bottler of beverages for retailers and A-brands with production in Europe and North America, has announced the potential acquisition of Britvic’s three juice manufacturing facilities in France. The prospective transaction, subject to employee consultation and competition clearance, includes Britvic’s three bottling facilities in La-Roche-sur-Foron, Château-Thébaud and Nissan-lez-Enserune, related retailer brands business, the Fruité brand and a long-term contract manufacturing agreement with Britvic for manufacturing the Pressade and Fruit Shoot brands. UK-based Britvic has soft drinks distribution and operations in more than 50 countries globally.
The proposed transaction fits with Refresco’s strategy for growth in contract manufacturing, in this case in France, a market where the group wishes to continue to grow.
Hans Roelofs, chief executive of Refresco Group, says: “France is an important market for Refresco and with this acquisition, we create a better national coverage and consequently further potential to serve customers’ demands. We currently provide Britvic with contract manufacturing services in Benelux and in the UK. This acquisition in France further strengthens our relationship.”
Olivier Mercier, Britvic’s managing director in France, says: “This proposed transaction with Refresco allows Britvic to continue our leadership in our core syrups business while ensuring the optimal development of our flagship brands for children’s drinks and juices, Fruit Shoot and Pressade.”
The proposed acquisition is subject to approval of the French competition authority and customary closing conditions. It is anticipated that the acquisition will not be completed until next year.
